The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has signed a new partnership agreement with the Sports Grounds Safety Authority (SGSA) to enhance spectator safety and security at domestic and international grounds.
Under the new agreement, the SGSA will carry out safety audits, review current procedures and provide training for CEOs, safety officers and ground management at grounds across England and Wales.
The four-year deal reflects ECB’s plans to improve the spectator experience outlined in Cricket Unleashed – its new national framework for growing the sport at every level.
ECB’s Chief Executive Officer, Tom Harrison said: “We want fans to feel safe and secure at all times – and gain maximum enjoyment from watching cricket.
"Improving safety and security is an important part of our broader plans to enhance spectators’ match-day experience and attract more people to the sport.
“The SGSA is the world’s leading authority in this area and we look forward to drawing on their guidance and expertise as we prepare to host three different global events over the next three summers, and develop plans to broaden the audience for all forms of cricket.”
The SGSA Chief Executive, Karen Eyre-White said: “We are delighted to be continuing to support the ECB in its mission to improve safety for all spectators at their grounds.
"The ECB is a proactive governing body that understands the importance of taking a holistic approach to safety and values what good safety management practices can deliver for spectators.
"We’ve been working together for more than a year and our new partnership reflects the ECB’s ongoing commitment to improve standards and ensure safety remains a priority. “
